BARBADOS now has a group of talented young sportspersons ready to take on the world.
The Future Aces programme, one of the biggest in Canada, came to the island yesterday bringing inspiration and excitement to more than 60 elite athletes chosen by their schools.
The day's activities – named the Kevin Weekes Youth Rally – was part of the launch of the Kevin Weekes Foundation in Barbados.
Weekes, who is a goalie with the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League, was born in Canada to Bajan parents.
"I'm delighted to bring the programme to you here in Barbados and I'm happy you came out to be part of it," a smiling Weekes told the athletes, who ranged in age from seven to 18.
During the day they heard an inspirational message from Bernice Carnegie, daughter of Herb Carnegie, who was founder of Future Aces. She took them through various activities which were aimed at boosting self-confidence and urged them to follow the code: "I love myself".
Organiser Kirk Brooks, who is part of the organising committee, said Barbados is an
island of "unmined gold" and they were more than delighted to set up the programmes here.
The local end of the event was facilitated by the Ministry of Education. Vaneisha Cadogan, Education Officer, Physical Education, said the pool of children was made up of those who were good on the field of play and also excelled in the classroom.
"We have a group of children who are performing well in sports and also have done well in their academics," she said.
"Not all the schools responded but we are happy to have found a talented group, happy to be part of the programme, and to be enjoying a good day with these fine people."
